BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care

Course Description

This vocational course is designed for Post-16 learners who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment in the health and social care sector. The qualification is equivalent in size to three A Levels.

Students will gain  a wide range of transferable skills, extensive practical opportunities as well as outstanding classroom teaching throughout the course. Additionally, the breadth of optional content in this qualification allows learners to widen their opportunities to progress to a number of different higher education courses and Post 18 pathways.

Course topics

Students will study a range of topics which include:

• Human Lifespan Development
• Working In Health And Social Care
• Meeting Individual Care And Support Needs
• Work Experience In Health And Social Care
• Caring For Individuals With Dementia
• Assessing Children’s Development Support Needs

Course Assessment

Students will complete the Extended Diploma over two years which is equivalent to 3 A-Levels and is recognised by employers and universities. The Diploma consists of 4 mandatory units and 13 optional units. The mandatory units are assessed by external examination and the optional units are assessed through coursework. Assessment will be through a variety of methods including written assignments, case studies, projects, performance observation, time-constrained assessments. All units are assessed internally by staff and then moderated by the exam board (BTEC Pearson). This is a nationally recognised award which attracts UCAS points for higher education providers. Students will be equipped with extensive knowledge, leadership and employability skills.

Students will be set regular homework and are expected to work independently within college time.

Career Opportunities

The qualification will allow access to many relevant university courses, for example:

• BSc (Hons) in Nursing
• BA (Hons) in Social Work
• BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy
• BSc (Hons) in Occupational Therapy
• BSc (Hons) in Speech Therapy
• BA (Hons) in Health and Social Care.

Plus careers in

• Radiography
• Midwifery and Nursing
• Paramedic Science
• Podiatry
• Healthcare Science
• NHS Practitioner Training Programme

Entry Requirements:

5 GCSE grades 4+. English and Maths is preferred but re-sit opportunities will be given for pupils.

For more information about this course please contact Kathy Falk on 01977 605060 or email kfalk@castlefordacademy.com